Mold Detection FAQ

Why is mold growing in my home?

Molds are part of
the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves
and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible
to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces
that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

Can mold
cause health problems?

Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot
and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases,
potentially toxic substances.

Allergic reactions to mold are common and include hay fever-type symptoms, such
as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic
to mold.

How do I get rid of mold?

It is impossible to get rid of all molds and mold spores
indoors, but indoor mold growth can be controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mold growth in your home, you
must clean up the mold and also fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, the
mold problem most likely will return.

Who should do the cleanup?

If the moldy area is less
than about 10 square feet, you can probably handle the job yourself. However:

If there has been a lot of water
damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet, consult the EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types.

If
you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience
cleaning up mold. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools
and Commercial Buildings, or the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.

If you suspect that the heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold, consult
the EPA's should you have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? Before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold - it could
spread mold throughout your home.

If the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water,
then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.

If
you have health concerns, consult a health professional before starting cleanup.